University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The programme combines core communication theory with specialised modules in media studies and practical media production. You will explore how media operate locally, regionally and globally, with attention to the Asia–Pacific and Indigenous contexts important to Hawaii.

• Core topics: communication theory, media history, media and society, media law and ethics, and research methods in communication.
• Media-focused modules: mass communication, digital media and society, journalism principles, broadcasting and audio production, visual communication, documentary studies and media literacy.
• Practical skills: courses in video production, audio production, multimedia storytelling, social media strategies, web design basics and multimedia editing.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a senior capstone project or practicum, opportunities for internships at local media outlets, NGOs and government agencies, and participation in student media organisations.
• Structure: a mix of lower-division general education and communication core courses followed by upper-division electives and a culminating senior experience. Students typically complete a set number of communication credits and may choose elective pathways emphasising production, research or policy.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Hawaii at Manoa is based on general undergraduate entry criteria. Prospective students should have completed secondary education with a strong record in English and humanities or social sciences. Typical expectations include:

• Secondary school completion or equivalent with satisfactory grades; specific grade expectations are set by the university for admission.
• Competence in written English demonstrated through secondary qualifications; international applicants will need an approved English language test if their previous education was not in English.
• For transfer students, a minimum number of transferable college credits and a cumulative GPA meeting the university's transfer requirements.
• No specific portfolio is required for the academic track, though applicants with production experience or a creative portfolio may highlight this in their application for practical modules.

Career prospects

Graduates in Communication and Media Studies leave with analytical, writing and production skills applicable across public, private and non-profit sectors. Career paths commonly pursued include:

• Journalism, reporting and editorial roles across print, online and broadcast media.
• Public relations and corporate communications, including media relations and internal communications.
• Social media management, digital content strategy and community management for brands and organisations.
• Broadcast and film production roles such as producer, editor, camera operator or audio technician.
• Advertising, marketing communications and content creation agencies.
• Research, policy and advocacy roles focusing on media impact, media literacy and communication policy, or further study at graduate level for academic and research careers.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a distinct Pacific and Asia–Pacific perspective on media and communication, reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity of Hawai‘i. The campus provides access to local media markets and cultural organisations for internships and community-engaged projects.

• Regional focus: coursework and faculty expertise emphasise media issues relevant to the Pacific Islands, Indigenous communication practices and trans-Pacific media flows.
• Facilities and student media: hands-on training is supported by multimedia labs, production equipment and active student media organisations where students gain real publishing and broadcasting experience.
• Industry links: proximity to Honolulu’s media outlets and cultural institutions facilitates internships and professional networking with local broadcasters, PR firms and NGOs.
• Support for experiential learning: the programme encourages internships, community projects and capstone work that prepare students for immediate entry into media and communication roles or for postgraduate study.